Deputy Brian Bennett & Partner Chaos
Office Phone: 507-444-3841
E-Mail: brian.bennett@co.steele.mn.us

Chaos was born March 5, 2004.  Our initial investment was $15,124.00, of which the Steele County Human Services Office reimbursed $5,000.00 through a grant. 

Deputy Bennett and Chaos were trained by the St. Paul Police Canine Unit.  The canine completed basic training on May 25, 2005.  The Steele County Canine Unit is required to maintain current certification.  The Unit is trained to meet the standards of the United States Police Canine Association for both narcotics and patrol tactics.

Chaos has been trained to alert to the odor of cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, illegal mushrooms and heroin.   The canine unit is also trained to search buildings, vehicles and open areas for suspects and evidence.    A training area has been established on the Steele County Detention Center property.  It is used to set up various training scenarios to refresh the skills that have been learned.  

Because of their superior senses of smell, hearing and physical capabilities, the trained law enforcement canine is a valuable supplement to the Sheriff’s Office manpower.  However, utilization of canines require adherence to procedures that properly control their use of force potential and that channel their specialized capabilities into legally acceptable crime prevention and control activities.

The Steele County Sheriff’s Office Canine Unit has assisted the Owatonna Police Department, the Minn. State Patrol, the South Central Drug Investigative Unit and the Owatonna High School.

They have participated in several competitions, gaining the following awards:

Deputy Bennett and Chaos are available for public demonstrations. Request for demonstration form.